US20130039227A1 | 2013-02-14 | |||
US20160065263A1 | 2016-03-03 | |||
US20130072187A1 | 2013-03-21 | |||
US20110075593A1 | 2011-03-31 | |||
US20080310487A1 | 2008-12-18 |
CLAIMS What is claimed is: 1 . A printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations comprising: a transceiver line coupled to a radio frequency integrated circuit to receive and transmit a radio frequency signal in a first frequency; a filter coupled to the transceiver line; a first interface having a trace capable of being coupled to the filter for a single band configuration and capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch for a polarization diversity configuration; a second interface having a trace capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration and capable of being coupled to a diplexer for a dual-band configuration; and a third interface having a trace capable of being coupled to a second filter for the single band configuration, capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration, and capable of being coupled to the diplexer for the dual-band configuration. 2. The printed circuit board of claim 1 , further comprising: a second transceiver line coupled to the radio frequency integrated circuit to receive and transmit the radio frequency signal in the first frequency, wherein the second filter is coupled to the second transceiver line; and a fourth interface having a trace capable of being coupled to a second polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration and capable of being coupled to a second diplexer for the dual-band configuration. 3. The printed circuit board of claim 2, wherein the first interface is coupled to a first single-band antenna operating at the first frequency and the third interface is coupled to a second single-band antenna operating at the first frequency for the single band configuration. 4. The printed circuit board of claim 2, wherein the filter is coupled to the input of the polarization diversity switch, the first interface trace is coupled to a first output of the polarization diversity switch, and the second interface trace is coupled to a second output of the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration. 5. The printed circuit board of claim 4, wherein the first interface is coupled to a first vertically polarized antenna operating at the first frequency, the second interface is coupled to a horizontally polarized antenna operating at the first frequency, and the third interface is coupled to a second vertically polarized antenna operating at the first frequency. 6. The printed circuit board of claim 1 , further comprising: a first input of the diplexer coupled to the second interface trace for the dual-band configuration, wherein the second interface is coupled to a second radio frequency integrated circuit that generates a radio frequency signal in a second frequency; a second input of the diplexer coupled to the filter for the dual-band configuration; and an output of the diplexer is coupled to the third interface trace for the dual-band configuration, wherein the third interface is coupled to a dual-band antenna operating at the first frequency and at the second frequency. 7. The printed circuit board of claim 1 , further comprising: a fourth interface capable of being coupled to an output of a second diplexer for an augmented radio configuration a fifth interface having a trace capable of being coupled to a second input of the second diplexer for the augmented radio configuration. 8. A networking device, comprising: a networking device casing; and a printed circuit board within the networking device casing having a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface, each interface having a trace to support multiple radio frequency configurations, wherein the radio frequency configurations include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration, and wherein the networking device includes components for at least one of the multiple radio frequency configurations. 9. The networking device of claim 8, wherein the components for the single-band configuration include a first single-band antenna and a second single-band antenna. 10. The networking device of claim 8, wherein the components for the polarization diversity configuration include a polarization diversity switch, a vertically polarized antenna, and a horizontally polarized antenna. 1 1 . The networking device of claim 8, wherein the components for the dual-band configuration include a diplexer and a dual-band antenna. 12. A method of manufacturing a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations comprising: printing a trace of a first interface that is capable of being coupled to a filter for a single band configuration and that is capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch for a polarization diversity configuration; printing a trace of a second interface that is capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration and that is capable of being coupled to a diplexer for a dual-band configuration; and printing a trace of a third interface that is capable of being coupled to a second filter for the single band configuration and that is capable of being coupled to the diplexer for the dual-band configuration. 13. The method of manufacturing of claim 12, wherein printing the first interface trace includes printing the first interface trace to couple to the filter and to couple to a first output of the polarization diversity switch. 14. The method of manufacturing of claim 12, wherein printing the second interface trace includes printing the second interface trace to couple to a second output of the polarization diversity switch and to couple to a first input of the diplexer. 15. The method of manufacturing of claim 12, wherein printing the third interface trace includes printing the third interface trace to couple to the second filter and to couple to an output of the diplexer. |
MULTIPLE RADIO FREQUENCY CONFIGURATIONS
BACKGROUND
[0001 ] Access points may be used in wireless networks to enable devices to connect wirelessly to one another or to wired networks. An access point may transmit wireless signals to devices within the wireless network and receive wireless signals from devices within the network. The access point may use one or more of several different radio frequency configurations to receive and transmit signals depending on the particular wireless network, the devices within the network, performance objectives, cost considerations, and other such factors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] The following detailed description references the drawings, wherein:
[0003] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations via a first interface trace, a second interface trace, and a third interface trace;
[0004] FIG. 2A is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations via a first interface trace, a second interface trace, a third interface trace, and a fourth interface trace;
[0005] FIG. 2B is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board that includes a fifth interface trace and supports multiple radio frequency configurations;
[0006] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example networking device comprising a networking device casing and a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations wherein the printed circuit board includes components for at least one of the multiple radio frequency configurations;
[0007] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example networking device comprising a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations wherein the printed circuit board includes components for the single-band configuration;
[0008] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example networking device comprising a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations wherein the printed circuit board includes components for the polarization diversity configuration;
[0009] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example networking device comprising a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations wherein the printed circuit board includes components for the dual-band configuration; and
[0010] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method for manufacturing a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[001 1 ] To effectively accommodate varying wireless network environments and varying devices, access points may utilize differing radio frequency configurations. In some examples, access points may utilize a radio frequency configuration that allows transmission and receipt of radio frequency signals at a single frequency. In other examples, access points may utilize a radio frequency configuration that allows transmission and receipt of radio frequency signals in multiple frequencies. In some examples, the radio frequency configurations may utilize internal or external single-band antennas whereas in other examples, the radio frequency configurations may utilize internal or external dual-band antennas. Yet other access points may use radio frequency configurations that involve vertically polarized and/or horizontally polarized antennas. Each radio frequency configuration may offer different technical and/or marketplace benefits. Thus, providers may desire to provide access points in several different configurations and customers may desire access to differing configurations depending on their particular needs.
[0012] In some examples, different radio frequency configurations have involved printing circuit boards tailored to each of the different configurations. In some such examples, printed circuit board designs and layouts have been modified to optimize space, reduce size, and minimize costs. In other such examples, radio frequency configurations involving multiple single-band antennas in different frequencies have been redesigned to involve dual-band and multi-frequency antennas.
[0013] However, there may be instances in which multiple single-band antennas in varying frequencies may be preferable over a dual-band or multi-frequency antenna. In addition, using differentiated printed circuit board layouts and additional daughtercards for each radio frequency configuration may result in added costs, additional complexity, and inventory management issues.
[0014] Examples described herein may improve printed circuit boards for access points and other wireless networking devices by providing a printed circuit board that supports multiple radio frequency configurations. For instance, some examples herein may use interface traces that may support many different radio frequency configurations depending on the components to which those traces are coupled. For instance, depending on the components used, a common printed circuit board may be used for one or more of a single- band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, a dual-band configuration, and/or an augmented radio configuration.
[0015] In some examples described herein, a printed circuit board may support multiple radio frequency configurations. The printed circuit board may include a transceiver line coupled to a radio frequency integrated circuit to receive and transmit a radio frequency signal in a first frequency. A filter may be coupled to the transceiver line via a transceiver switch. The printed circuit board may further include a first interface having a trace capable of being coupled to the filter for a single band configuration and capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch for a polarization diversity configuration. A second interface may have a trace capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration and capable of being coupled to a diplexer for a dual- band configuration. The printed circuit board may also include a third interface having a trace capable of being coupled to a second filter for the single band configuration, capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration, and capable of being coupled to the diplexer for the dual-band configuration.
[0016] In other examples described herein, a networking device may include a networking device casing and a printed circuit board within the networking device casing having a first interface, a second interface, and a third interface, each interface having a trace to support multiple radio frequency configurations. The radio frequency configurations may include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual- band configuration. The printed circuit board may include components for at least one of the multiple radio frequency configurations.
[0017] In yet other examples described herein, a method for manufacturing a printed circuit board to support multiple radio frequency configurations may involve printing a trace of a first interface that is capable of being coupled to a filter for a single-band configuration and that is capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch for a polarization diversity configuration. The method may further involve printing a trace of a second interface that is capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch for the polarization diversity configuration and that is capable of being coupled to a diplexer for a dual-band configuration. The method may also involve printing a trace of a third interface that is capable of being coupled to a second filter for the single-band configuration and that is capable of being coupled to the diplexer for the dual-band configuration.
[0018] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board 100 to support multiple radio frequency (RF) configurations that includes a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) 1 10 and first, second, and third interfaces 130, 150, and 170, respectively. As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[0019] A radio frequency integrated circuit, as used herein, may refer to any integrated circuit that generates an RF signal. As depicted in FIG. 1 , RFIC 110 generates an RF signal in a first frequency (fl ) 102. In some examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 1 10 may have a first frequency of 5 Gigahertz (GHz). In other examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 1 10 may have a first frequency of 2 GHz or any other suitable frequency. In yet other examples, RFIC 110 may generate multiple RF signals in different frequencies. RFIC 110 may be located on printed circuit board 100, as shown in FIG. 1. In other examples, RFIC 110 may be located off of printed circuit board 100, but may be capable of electrically communicating with the printed circuit board and/or components on the printed circuit board.
[0020] Printed circuit board 100 may also include first interface 130, second interface 150, and third interface 170. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, and third interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 130, second interface 150, and third interface 170 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single- band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 130, second interface 150, and third interface 170 may comprise any electromechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 130, second interface 150, and third interface 170 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 100 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[0021] Each of first interface 130, second interface 150, and third interface 170 may have a trace on printed circuit board 100. As shown, first interface 130 may have first interface trace 120, second interface 150 may have second interface trace 140, and third interface 170 may have third interface trace 160. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[0022] Printed circuit board 100 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 120, 140, and 160. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. The RF configurations supported by printed circuit board 100 may include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration.
[0023] A single-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a single-band antenna. A single-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at a single frequency. In some examples, different single-band configurations may be used that involve single-band antennas at different frequencies.
[0024] A polarization diversity configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses diverse antennas. In some examples, the diverse antennas may involve vertically polarized and horizontally polarized antennas. In other examples, the diverse antennas may be spatially diverse, sectorized, or the like. A vertically polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives vertically polarized waves. It is a linear polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a vertical direction and has an electric field perpendicular to a reference point. A horizontally-polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives horizontally polarized waves. It is a linear-polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a horizontal direction and has an electric field parallel to a reference point.
[0025] A dual-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a dual-band antenna. A dual-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at multiple frequencies.
[0026] As depicted in FIG. 1 , RFIC 1 10 may be connected to a filter 1 14 via transceiver line 1 12. In some such examples, RFIC 1 10 may generate an RF signal in a first frequency 102 that is transmitted on transceiver line 112. In some examples (not shown in FIG. 1 ), transceiver line 112 may comprise a transmit line and a receive line. A transmit/receive switch may be used to electrically connect either the transmit line or the receive line to filter 114. In some such examples, the transmit line may include a power amplifier to amplify the RF signal. Similarly, the receive line may include a low noise amplifier to amplify potentially weak signals that may be received. In other examples, additional components may be used in the transceiver line to achieve a consistent or balanced signal such as a balun transformer, an RF directional coupler, additional filters, resistors, or capacitors.
[0027] In some examples, RFIC 110 may also be connected to a second filter 118 via a second transceiver line 1 16. In some such examples, RFIC 110 may generate an RF signal in a first frequency 102 that is transmitted on second transceiver line 1 16. In some examples (not shown in FIG. 1 ), second transceiver line 116 may comprise a transmit line and a receive line. A transmit/receive switch may be used to electrically connect either the transmit line or the receive line to second filter 118. In some such examples, the transmit line may include a power amplifier to amplify the RF signal. Similarly, the receive line may include a low noise amplifier to amplify potentially weak signals that may be received. In other examples, additional components may be used in the second transceiver line to achieve a consistent or balanced signal such as a balun transformer, an RF directional coupler, additional filters, resistors, or capacitors.
[0028] In the example of FIG. 1 , first interface 130 may have a trace 120 capable of being coupled to filter 1 14 for a single-band configuration. As used herein, coupling may refer to a direct connection and a connection through intermediary components such as capacitors or resistors. When printed circuit board 100 is in a single-band configuration, in some examples, filter 114 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples filter 114 to first interface trace 120 and first interface 130. Other components may also be used to couple filter 114 to first interface trace 120. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple filter 1 14 to first interface trace 120. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 100 to couple filter 114 to first interface trace 120.
[0029] Third interface 170 may also have a trace 160 capable of being coupled to second filter 118 for a single-band configuration. When printed circuit board 100 is in a single-band configuration, in some examples, second filter 1 18 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples second filter 118 to third interface trace 160 and third interface 170. Other components may also be used to couple second filter 118 to third interface trace 160. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple second filter 118 to third interface trace 160. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 100 to couple second filter 118 to third interface trace 160.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 1 , first interface trace 120 may also be capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch 122 for a polarization diversity configuration. When printed circuit board 100 is in a polarization diversity configuration, in some examples, filter 1 14 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples filter 1 14 to an input 123 of a polarization diversity switch 122. Although input 123 of polarization diversity switch 122 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, input 123 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Accordingly, as used in examples herein, "input" and "output" may refer to both an input and an output, depending on the direction of the signal. Other components may also be used to couple filter 1 14 to input 123. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple filter 1 14 to input 123.
[0031 ] First interface trace 120 may be coupled to a first output 124 of polarization diversity switch 122. Although output 124 of polarization diversity switch 122 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 124 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples polarization diversity switch 122 to first interface trace 120. Other components may also be used to couple first interface trace 120 to output 124. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple first interface trace 120 to output 124.
[0032] Second interface 150 may also have a trace 140 capable of being coupled to polarization diversity switch 122 for the polarization diversity configuration. Second interface trace 140 may be coupled to a second output 125 of polarization diversity switch 122. Although second output 125 of polarization diversity switch 122 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, second output 125 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples polarization diversity switch 122 to second interface trace 140. Other components may also be used to couple second interface trace 140 to second output 125. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple second interface trace 140 to second output 125.
[0033] In the example of FIG. 1 , second interface trace 140 may also be capable of being coupled to a diplexer 142 for a dual-band configuration. As used in examples herein, a diplexer may refer to an electrical component that implements frequency domain multiplexing. Second interface trace 140 may be coupled to a first input 143 of diplexer 142. Although first input 143 of diplexer 142 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, first input 143 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, diplexer 142 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples diplexer 142 to second interface trace 140. Other components may also be used to couple second interface trace 140 to first input 143. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple second interface trace 140 to first input 143.
[0034] When printed circuit board 100 is in a dual-band configuration, in some examples, filter 1 14 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples filter 1 14 to second input 144 of diplexer 142. Although second input 144 of diplexer 142 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, second input 144 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Other components may also be used to couple filter 1 14 to second input 144. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple filter 1 14 to second input 144.
[0035] Third interface 170 may have a trace 160 capable of being coupled to diplexer 142 for the dual-band configuration. Third interface trace 160 may be coupled to an output 145 of diplexer 142. Although output 145 of diplexer 142 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 145 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, diplexer 142 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 that couples diplexer 142 to third interface trace 160. Other components may also be used to couple third interface trace 160 to output 145. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 100 to couple third interface trace 160 to output 145.
[0036] In the example of FIG. 1 , depending on the RF configuration, various components may or may not be installed in printed circuit board 100. For example, a printed circuit board 100 having a single-band configuration may not have installed a polarization diversity switch 122 and a diplexer 142, though their footprints may remain on the board. Similarly, a printed circuit board 100 having a polarization diversity configuration may not have installed a diplexer 142, though its footprint may remain on the board. In another example, a printed circuit board 100 having a dual-band configuration may not have installed a polarization diversity switch 122, though its footprint may remain on the board. In such examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple first interface trace 120, second interface trace 140, and third interface trace 160 may or may not be installed depending on the RF configuration.
[0037] In some examples, transceiver line 112 to first interface 130 and second interface 150 may be referred to as a chain. As shown in FIG. 1 , "Chain 0" may include transceiver line 1 12, first interface 130, second interface 150, and all components there between. In some examples, printed circuit board 100 may include a single chain along with an additional interface such as third interface 170. In other examples, printed circuit board 100 may include several chains and an additional interface. For instance, third interface 170 may be part of a second chain, "Chain 1 ," not depicted in FIG. 1. Accordingly, while a single chain is shown in the example of FIG. 1 , printed circuit board 100 may include any number of suitable chains as well as an additional interface to support multiple RF configurations.
[0038] Further examples are described herein in relation to FIG. 2A, which is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board 200 to support multiple RF configurations that includes an RFIC 210 and first, second, third, and fourth interfaces 230, 250, 270, and 290, respectively. As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[0039] A radio frequency integrated circuit, as used herein, may refer to any integrated circuit that generates an RF signal. As depicted in FIG. 2A, RFIC 210 generates an RF signal in a first frequency (fl ) 202. In some examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 210 may have a first frequency of 5 GHz. In other examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 210 may have a first frequency of 2 GHz or any other suitable frequency. In yet other examples, RFIC 210 may generate multiple RF signals in different frequencies. RFIC 210 may be located on printed circuit board 200, as shown in FIG. 2A. In other examples, RFIC 210 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with the printed circuit board and/or components on the printed circuit board.
[0040] Printed circuit board 200 may also include first interface 230, second interface 250, third interface 270, and fourth interface 290. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, third interface, and fourth interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 230, second interface 250, third interface 270, and fourth interface 290 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single-band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, GPS antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 230, second interface 250, third interface 270, and fourth interface 290 may comprise any electro-mechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 230, second interface 250, third interface 270, and fourth interface 290 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 200 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[0041] Each of first interface 230, second interface 250, third interface 270, and fourth interface 290 may have a trace on printed circuit board 200. As shown, first interface 230 may have first interface trace 220, second interface 250 may have second interface trace 240, third interface 270 may have third interface trace 260, and fourth interface 290 may have fourth interface trace 280. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[0042] Printed circuit board 200 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 220, 240, 260, and 280. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. The RF configurations supported by printed circuit board 200 may include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration.
[0043] A single-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a single-band antenna. A single-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at a single frequency. In some examples, different single-band configurations may be used that involve single-band antennas at different frequencies.
[0044] A polarization diversity configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses diverse antennas. In some examples, the diverse antennas may involve vertically polarized and horizontally polarized antennas. In other examples, the diverse antennas may be spatially diverse, sectorized, or the like. A vertically polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives vertically polarized waves. It is a linear polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a vertical direction and has an electric field perpendicular to a reference point. A horizontally-polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives horizontally polarized waves. It is a linear-polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a horizontal direction and has an electric field parallel to a reference point.
[0045] A dual-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a dual-band antenna. A dual-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at multiple frequencies.
[0046] As depicted in FIG. 2A, RFIC 210 may be connected to a filter 214 via transceiver line 1 12. In some such examples, RFIC 210 may generate an RF signal in a first frequency 202 that is transmitted on transceiver line 212. In some examples (not shown in FIG. 2A), transceiver line 212 may comprise a transmit line and a receive line. A transmit/receive switch may be used to electrically connect either the transmit line or the receive line to filter 214. In some such examples, the transmit line may include a power amplifier to amplify the RF signal. Similarly, the receive line may include a low noise amplifier to amplify potentially weak signals that may be received. In other examples, additional components may be used in the transceiver line to achieve a consistent or balanced signal such as a balun transformer, an RF directional coupler, additional filters, resistors, or capacitors.
[0047] In some examples, RFIC 210 may also be connected to a second filter 218 via a second transceiver line 216. In some such examples, RFIC 210 may generate an RF signal in a first frequency 202 that is transmitted on second transceiver line 216. In some examples (not shown in FIG. 2A), second transceiver line 216 may comprise a transmit line and a receive line. A transmit/receive switch may be used to electrically connect either the transmit line or the receive line to second filter 218. In some such examples, the transmit line may include a power amplifier to amplify the RF signal. Similarly, the receive line may include a low noise amplifier to amplify potentially weak signals that may be received. In other examples, additional components may be used in the second transceiver line to achieve a consistent or balanced signal such as a balun transformer, an RF directional coupler, additional filters, resistors, or capacitors.
[0048] In the example of FIG. 2A, first interface 230 may have a trace 220 capable of being coupled to filter 214 for a single-band configuration. As used herein, coupling may refer to a direct connection and a connection through intermediary components such as capacitors or resistors. When printed circuit board 200 is in a single-band configuration, in some examples, filter 214 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples filter 214 to first interface trace 220 and first interface 230. Other components may also be used to couple filter 214 to first interface trace 220. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple filter 214 to first interface trace 220. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 200 to couple filter 214 to first interface trace 220.
[0049] In examples involving the single-band configuration, first interface 230 may couple to or connect to a first single-band antenna 232 operating at the first frequency 202. Thus, in some examples, first single-band antenna 232 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, first single-band antenna 232 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, first single-band antenna 232 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). Single-band antenna 232 may also be vertically or horizontally polarized. In some examples involving the single-band configuration, first single-band antenna 232 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, first single-band antenna 232 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via first interface 230.
[0050] Third interface 270 may also have a trace 260 capable of being coupled to second filter 218 for a single-band configuration. When printed circuit board 200 is in a single-band configuration, in some examples, second filter 218 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second filter 218 to third interface trace 260 and third interface 270. Other components may also be used to couple second filter 218 to third interface trace 260. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second filter 218 to third interface trace 260. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 200 to couple second filter 218 to third interface trace 260.
[0051] In examples involving the single-band configuration, third interface 270 may couple to or connect to a second single-band antenna 272 operating at the first frequency 202. Thus, in some examples, second single-band antenna 272 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, second single-band antenna 272 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, second single-band antenna 272 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). Single-band antenna 272 may also be vertically or horizontally polarized. In some examples involving the single-band configuration, second single-band antenna 272 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, second single-band antenna 272 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via third interface 270.
[0052] As shown in FIG. 2A, first interface trace 220 may also be capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch 222 for a polarization diversity configuration. When printed circuit board 200 is in a polarization diversity configuration, in some examples, filter 214 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples filter 214 to an input 223 of a polarization diversity switch 222. Although input 223 of polarization diversity switch 222 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, input 223 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Other components may also be used to couple filter 214 to input 223. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple filter 214 to input 223.
[0053] First interface trace 220 may be coupled to a first output 224 of polarization diversity switch 222. Although output 224 of polarization diversity switch 222 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 224 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, polarization diversity switch 222 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples polarization diversity switch 222 to first interface trace 220. Other components may also be used to couple first interface trace 220 to output 224. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple first interface trace 220 to output 224.
[0054] In examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, first interface 230 may couple to or connect to a first vertically polarized antenna 234 operating at the first frequency 202. In some examples, first vertically polarized antenna 234 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, first vertically polarized antenna 234 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, first vertically polarized antenna 234 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, first vertically polarized antenna 234 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, first vertically polarized antenna 234 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via first interface 230. In yet other examples, first interface 230 may couple to or connect to a horizontally polarized antenna.
[0055] Second interface 250 may also have a trace 240 capable of being coupled to polarization diversity switch 222 for the polarization diversity configuration. Second interface trace 240 may be coupled to a second output 225 of polarization diversity switch 222. Although second output 225 of polarization diversity switch 222 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, second output 225 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, polarization diversity switch 222 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples polarization diversity switch 222 to second interface trace 240. Other components may also be used to couple second interface trace 240 to second output 225. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second interface trace 240 to second output 225.
[0056] In examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, second interface 250 may couple to or connect to a first horizontally polarized antenna 252 operating at the first frequency 202. In some examples, first horizontally polarized antenna 252 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, first horizontally polarized antenna 252 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, first horizontally polarized antenna 252 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, first horizontally polarized antenna 252 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, first horizontally polarized antenna 252 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via second interface 250. In yet other examples, second interface 250 may couple to or connect to a vertically polarized antenna.
[0057] Third interface trace 260 may also be capable of being coupled to a second polarization diversity switch 262 for the polarization diversity configuration. When printed circuit board 200 is in the polarization diversity configuration, in some examples, second filter 218 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second filter 218 to an input 263 of a second polarization diversity switch 262. Although input 263 of second polarization diversity switch 262 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, input 263 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Other components may also be used to couple second filter 218 to input 263. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second filter 218 to input 263.
[0058] Third interface trace 260 may be coupled to a first output 264 of second polarization diversity switch 262. Although output 264 of second polarization diversity switch 262 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 264 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, second polarization diversity switch 262 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second polarization diversity switch 262 to third interface trace 260. Other components may also be used to couple third interface trace 260 to output 264. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple third interface trace 260 to output 264.
[0059] In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, third interface 270 may couple to or connect to a second vertically polarized antenna 274 operating at the first frequency 202. In some examples, second vertically polarized antenna 274 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, second vertically polarized antenna 274 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, second vertically polarized antenna 274 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, second vertically polarized antenna 274 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, second vertically polarized antenna 274 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via third interface 270. In yet other examples, third interface 270 may couple to or connect to a horizontally polarized antenna.
[0060] In some examples, fourth interface 290 may also have a trace 280 capable of being coupled to a second polarization diversity switch 262 for the polarization diversity configuration. Fourth interface trace 280 may be coupled to a second output 265 of second polarization diversity switch 262. Although second output 265 of second polarization diversity switch 262 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, second output 265 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, second polarization diversity switch 262 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second polarization diversity switch 262 to fourth interface trace 280. Other components may also be used to couple fourth interface trace 280 to second output 265. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple fourth interface trace 280 to second output 265.
[0061 ] In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, fourth interface 290 may couple to or connect to a second horizontally polarized antenna 292 operating at the first frequency 202. In some examples, second horizontally polarized antenna 292 may be resonant at 5 GHz. In other examples, second horizontally polarized antenna 292 may be resonant at 2 GHz. In yet other examples, second horizontally polarized antenna 292 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). In some examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, second horizontally polarized antenna 292 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, second horizontally polarized antenna 292 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via fourth interface 290. In yet other examples, fourth interface 290 may couple to or connect to a vertically polarized antenna.
[0062] In the example of FIG. 2A, second interface trace 240 may also be capable of being coupled to a diplexer 242 for a dual-band configuration. As used in examples herein, a diplexer may refer to an electrical component that implements frequency domain multiplexing. Second interface trace 240 may be coupled to a first input 243 of diplexer 242. Although first input 243 of diplexer 242 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, first input 243 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, diplexer 242 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples diplexer 242 to second interface trace 240. Other components may also be used to couple second interface trace 240 to first input 243. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second interface trace 240 to first input 243.
[0063] In examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, second interface 250 may couple to or connect to a second radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) 205 that generates an RF signal in a second frequency (/2) 204. Second frequency 204 may differ from first frequency 202. In some examples, the RF signal generated by second RFIC 205 may have a second frequency of 2 GHz. In other examples, the RF signal generated by second RFIC 205 may have a second frequency of 5 GHz or any other suitable frequency. In some examples, second RFIC 205 and RFIC 210 may be a single or same RFIC that generates multiple frequencies. Second RFIC 205 may be located on printed circuit board 200 or off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via second interface 250. The RF signal generated by second RFIC 205 may enter diplexer 242 via first input 243.
[0064] When printed circuit board 200 is in a dual-band configuration, in some examples, filter 214 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples filter 214 to second input 244 of diplexer 242. Although second input 244 of diplexer 242 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, second input 244 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Other components may also be used to couple filter 214 to second input 244. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple filter 214 to second input 244.
[0065] Third interface 270 may have a trace 260 capable of being coupled to diplexer 242 for the dual-band configuration. Third interface trace 260 may be coupled to an output 245 of diplexer 242. Although output 245 of diplexer 242 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 245 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, diplexer 242 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples diplexer 242 to third interface trace 260. Other components may also be used to couple third interface trace 260 to output 245. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple third interface trace 260 to output 245.
[0066] In examples involving the dual-band configuration, third interface 270 may couple to or connect to a dual-band antenna 276 operating at the first frequency 202 and at the second frequency 204. In some examples, dual-band antenna 276 may be resonant at 5 GHz and 2 GHz. In other examples, dual-band antenna 276 may be resonant at other suitable frequencies, including cellular frequencies (e.g., 700 MegaHertz (MHz)) and other wireless frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz). In some examples involving the dual-band configuration, dual-band antenna 276 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, dual-band antenna 276 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via third interface 270.
[0067] In some examples involving the dual-band configuration, fourth interface trace 280 may also be capable of being coupled to a second diplexer 282. As used in examples herein, a diplexer may refer to an electrical component that implements frequency domain multiplexing. Fourth interface trace 280 may be coupled to a first input 283 of second diplexer 282. Although first input 283 of second diplexer 282 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, first input 283 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. In some examples, second diplexer 282 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second diplexer 282 to fourth interface trace 280. Other components may also be used to couple fourth interface trace 280 to first input 283. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple fourth interface trace 280 to first input 283.
[0068] In examples involving the polarization diversity configuration, fourth interface 290 may couple to or connect to second RFIC 205 that generates an RF signal in a second frequency (/2) 204. As described above, in some examples, second RFIC 205 and RFIC 210 may be a single RFIC that generates multiple frequencies. Second RFIC 205 may be located on printed circuit board 200 or off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via fourth interface 290. The RF signal generated by second RFIC 205 may enter second diplexer 282 via first input 283.
[0069] In some examples, when printed circuit board 200 is in a dual-band configuration, second filter 218 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second filter 218 to second input 284 of second diplexer 282. Although second input 284 of second diplexer 282 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted, second input 284 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. Other components may also be used to couple second filter 218 to second input 284. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second filter 218 to second input 284.
[0070] In the example of FIG. 2A, depending on the RF configuration, various components may or may not be installed in printed circuit board 200. For example, a printed circuit board 200 having a single-band configuration may not have a polarization diversity switch 222, second polarization diversity switch 262, diplexer 242, and second diplexer 282 installed, though their footprints may remain on the board. Similarly, a printed circuit board 200 having a polarization diversity configuration may not have a diplexer 242 and second diplexer 282 installed, though their footprints may remain on the board. In another example, a printed circuit board 200 having a dual-band configuration may not have a polarization diversity switch 222 and second polarization diversity switch 262 installed, though their footprints may remain on the board. In such examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple first interface trace 220, second interface trace 240, third interface trace 260, and fourth interface trace 280 may or may not be installed depending on the RF configuration.
[0071] In some examples, transceiver line 212 to first interface 230 and second interface 250 may be referred to as a chain. As shown in FIG. 2A, "Chain 0" may include transceiver line 212, first interface 230, second interface 250, and all components there between. "Chain 1 " may include second transceiver line 216, third interface 270, fourth interface 290, and all components there between. In some examples, printed circuit board 200 may include a single chain (e.g., Chain 0) and an additional interface such as third interface 270. In other examples, printed circuit board 200 may include two chains (e.g., Chain 0 and Chain 1 ) and an additional interface (not shown in FIG. 2A). In yet other examples, printed circuit board 200 may include any suitable number of chains and an additional interface.
[0072] In some examples, printed circuit board 200 may include several chains, each chain being in a same RF configuration. In one example, printed circuit board 200 may include four chains (or any other suitable number), each chain in a single-band configuration. In such an example, the single-band configuration may involve four single- band antennas resonant at a first frequency (e.g., 5 GHz). A networking device including the example printed circuit board 200 may additionally include a separate printed circuit board having four chains (or any other suitable number) or may include four additional chains on printed circuit board 200, each chain in a single-band configuration with single- band antennas resonant at a second frequency (e.g., 2 GHz).
[0073] In other examples, printed circuit board 200 may include several chains involving multiple RF configurations. In one example, printed circuit board 200 may include four chains (or any other suitable number), each chain in a polarization diversity configuration. In such an example, the polarization diversity configuration may involve four vertically polarized antennas and four horizontally polarized antennas resonant at a first frequency (e.g., 5 GHz). A networking device including the example printed circuit board 200 may additionally include a separate printed circuit board having four chains (or any other suitable number) or may include four additional chains on printed circuit board 200, each chain in a single-band configuration with vertically polarized single-band antennas resonant at a second frequency (e.g., 2 GHz).
[0074] In another example, printed circuit board 200 may include four chains (or any other suitable number), each chain in a polarization diversity configuration. In such an example, the polarization diversity configuration may involve four vertically polarized antennas and four horizontally polarized antennas resonant at a first frequency (e.g., 5 GHz). A networking device including the example printed circuit board 200 may additionally include a separate printed circuit board having four chains (or any other suitable number) or may include four additional chains on printed circuit board 200, each chain in a polarization diversity configuration with vertically polarized antennas and horizontally polarized antennas resonant at a second frequency (e.g., 2 GHz). [0075] Further examples are described herein in relation to FIG. 2B, which is a block diagram of an example printed circuit board 200 to support multiple RF configurations, including an optimizing RF configuration. As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[0076] Printed circuit board 200 includes RFIC 210, Chain 0 (not depicted in FIG. 2B), Chain 1 , and a fifth interface 298. A radio frequency integrated circuit, as used herein, may refer to any integrated circuit that generates an RF signal. As depicted in FIG. 2B, RFIC 210 generates an RF signal in a first frequency (ft ) 202. In some examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 210 may have a first frequency of 5 GHz. In other examples, the RF signal generated by RFIC 210 may have a first frequency of 2 GHz or any other suitable frequency. In yet other examples, RFIC 210 may generate multiple RF signals in different frequencies. RFIC 210 may be located on printed circuit board 200, as shown in FIG. 2B. In other examples, RFIC 210 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with the printed circuit board and/or components on the printed circuit board.
[0077] Printed circuit board 200 may include third interface 270, fourth interface 290, and fifth interface 298. Though not shown in FIG. 2B, printed circuit board 200 may also include first interface 230 and second interface 250. As used herein, each of the third interface, fourth interface, and fifth interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, third interface 270, fourth interface 290, and fifth interface 298 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single-band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, third interface 270, fourth interface 290, and fifth interface 298 may comprise any electro-mechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, third interface 270, fourth interface 290, and fifth interface 298 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 200 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component. [0078] As in the example of FIG. 2B, Chain 1 may comprise the second (and last) chain of two chains on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, Chain 1 may comprise the last of several chains on printed circuit board 200. As described above in relation to FIG. 2A, third and fourth interfaces 270 and 290 of Chain 1 may support multiple RF configurations.
[0079] Printed circuit board 200 may support multiple RF configurations via, for instance, traces 260, 280, and 296. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. The RF configurations supported by printed circuit board 200 may include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration, and an optimizing configuration.
[0080] A single-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a single-band antenna. A single-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at a single frequency. In some examples, different single-band configurations may be used that involve single-band antennas at different frequencies.
[0081] A polarization diversity configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses diverse antennas. In some examples, the diverse antennas may involve vertically polarized and horizontally polarized antennas. In other examples, the diverse antennas may be spatially diverse, sectorized, or the like. A vertically polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives vertically polarized waves. It is a linear polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a vertical direction and has an electric field perpendicular to a reference point. A horizontally-polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives horizontally polarized waves. It is a linear-polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a horizontal direction and has an electric field parallel to a reference point.
[0082] A dual-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a dual-band antenna. A dual-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at multiple frequencies.
[0083] An augmented radio configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration on a printed circuit board that is used in addition to the use of one or more of a single-band configuration and a polarization diversity configuration on the board. The augmented radio configuration may use a radio frequency other than that used by the single-band and polarization diversity configurations on the printed circuit board. In some examples, the augmented radio configuration may use a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, the augmented radio configuration may use a Bluetooth® radio, a ZigBee® radio, or a Z-Wave® radio. In yet other examples, the augmented radio configuration may use any other suitable radio protocol, including those at cellular frequencies.
[0084] As described above in relation to FIG. 2A, third and fourth interfaces 270 and 290, in addition to third interface trace 260 and fourth interface trace 280 may support multiple RF configurations, including the single-band configuration, the polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration. In the example of FIG. 2B, fourth interface 290 may have a trace 280 capable of being coupled to an output 285 of second diplexer 282 (shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference) for an augmented radio configuration. Although output 285 of second diplexer 282 may be referred to as an output and may act as an output when an RF signal is being transmitted, output 285 may also act as an input, for instance, when an RF signal is being received. When printed circuit board 200 includes an augmented radio configuration, in some examples, second diplexer 282 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second diplexer 282 to fourth interface trace 280 and fourth interface 290. Other components may also be used to couple second diplexer 282 to fourth interface trace 280. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second diplexer 282 to fourth interface trace 280. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 200 to couple second diplexer 282 to fourth interface trace 280. In some examples, diplexer 282 may instead be a switch.
[0085] In examples involving the augmented radio configuration, fourth interface 290 may couple to or connect to an antenna 293. Depending on the radio frequency of the augmented radio configuration, antenna 293 may be a single-band antenna, a polarized antenna, a dual-band antenna, a Wi-Fi antenna, a GPS antenna, or any other suitable antenna resonant at the frequency of the augmented radio configuration. In some examples involving the augmented radio configuration, antenna 293 may be located on printed circuit board 200. In other examples, antenna 293 may be located off of printed circuit board 200, but may be capable of electrically communicating with printed circuit board 200 and/or components on printed circuit board 200 via fourth interface 290.
[0086] Depending on the frequencies generated by RFIC 210 (ft 202) and third RFIC 208 (/3 206) and depending on the RF configuration, filter 218 may couple or connect to first input 283 of second diplexer 282 (e.g., the low pass filter). For instance, if first frequency 202 is lower than third frequency (/3) 206 and if third interface 270 is in the single-band configuration, filter 218 may couple or connect to first input 283 of second diplexer 282. If, however, first frequency 202 is higher than third frequency 206 and if third interface 270 is in the single-band configuration, filter 218 may couple to second input 284 of second diplexer 282 (e.g., the high pass filter). In some examples, diplexer 282 may instead be a switch. In another example, if first frequency 202 is lower than third frequency 206 and if third and fourth interfaces 270 and 290 are in the polarization diversity configuration, first input 283 may couple or connect to second output 265 of second polarization diversity switch 262. If, however, first frequency 202 is higher than third frequency 206 and if third and fourth interfaces 270 and 290 are in the polarization diversity configuration, second input 284 may couple or connect to second output 265 of second polarization diversity switch 262.
[0087] Fifth interface 298 may also have a trace 296 capable of being coupled to second diplexer 282 for the augmented radio configuration (shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference). Depending on the first and third frequencies 202 and 206 and the RF configuration of third and fourth interfaces 270 and 290, as described above, fifth interface 298 may have a trace 296 capable of being coupled to a second input 284 (or first input 283) of second diplexer 282 (shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference). Although second input 284 of second diplexer 282 may be referred to as an input and may act as an input when an RF signal is being transmitted at output 285, second input 284 may also act as an output, for instance, when an RF signal is being received at 285. When printed circuit board 200 includes the augmented radio configuration, in some examples, second diplexer 282 may be placed or located within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 that couples second diplexer 282 to fifth interface trace 296 and fifth interface 298. Other components may also be used to couple second diplexer 282 to fifth interface trace 296. For instance, in some examples, a capacitor may be placed within a footprint on printed circuit board 200 to couple second diplexer 282 to fifth interface trace 296. In other examples, multiple capacitors may be placed within footprints on printed circuit board 200 to couple second diplexer 282 to fifth interface trace 296.
[0088] In examples involving the augmented radio configuration, fifth interface 298 may couple to or connect to a third RFIC 208. Third RFIC 208 may generate a radio frequency signal at a third frequency (/3) 206 different from the first frequency 202 generated by RFIC 210. Depending on the desired radio frequency of the augmented radio configuration, third RFIC 208 may generate a radio signal having any suitable frequency, including a wireless signal at, for instance, 5 GHz or 2 GHz, a Bluetooth® signal, a cellular frequency signal, a ZigBee® signal, or a Z-Wave® signal. Accordingly, third RFIC 208 may include any suitable radio such as a wireless radio, a Bluetooth® radio, a ZigBee® radio, or a Z-Wave® radio.
[0089] In the example of FIG. 2B, two chains, Chain 0 (not shown) and Chain 1 , are described. However, in some examples, printed circuit board 200 may include any suitable number of chains wherein Chain 1 and fifth interface 298 are the last chain and last interface, respectively. Other chains on printed circuit board 200 may be in a single-band configuration or a polarization diversity configuration. In such examples, all chains on printed circuit board 200 may support multiple RF configurations, including the single-band configuration, the polarization diversity configuration, and the dual-band configuration. The last chain may additionally support the augmented radio configuration.
[0090] Further examples are described herein in relation to FIG. 3, which is a block diagram of an example networking device 301 comprising a networking device casing and a printed circuit board 300 within the networking device casing. In examples described herein, a networking device may be a computing device or other device to provide networking functionality, such as an access point or the like. The networking device casing, in examples described herein, may refer to any casing for the networking device that houses the printed circuit board. In some examples, networking device casing may be rigid or flexible and may completely or partially encase the printed circuit board. In some examples, the networking device casing may conform closely to the printed circuit board. In other examples, the networking case may allow room for additional components.
[0091 ] As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[0092] Printed circuit board 300 may include first interface 330, second interface 350, and third interface 370. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, and third interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 330, second interface 350, and third interface 370 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single- band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, GPS antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 330, second interface 350, and third interface 370 may comprise any electro-mechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 330, second interface 350, and third interface 370 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 300 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[0093] Each of first interface 330, second interface 350, and third interface 370 may have a trace on printed circuit board 300. As shown, first interface 330 may have first interface trace 320, second interface 350 may have second interface trace 340, and third interface 370 may have third interface trace 360. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[0094] Printed circuit board 300 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 320, 340, and 360. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. The RF configurations supported by printed circuit board 300 may include a single-band configuration, a polarization diversity configuration, and a dual-band configuration.
[0095] A single-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a single-band antenna. A single-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at a single frequency. In some examples, different single-band configurations may be used that involve single-band antennas at different frequencies.
[0096] A polarization diversity configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses diverse antennas. In some examples, the diverse antennas may involve vertically polarized and horizontally polarized antennas. In other examples, the diverse antennas may be spatially diverse, sectorized, or the like. A vertically polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives vertically polarized waves. It is a linear polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a vertical direction and has an electric field perpendicular to a reference point. A horizontally-polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives horizontally polarized waves. It is a linear-polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a horizontal direction and has an electric field parallel to a reference point.
[0097] A dual-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a dual-band antenna. A dual-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at multiple frequencies.
[0098] In the example of FIG. 3, first interface 330 may have a trace 320 for a single- band configuration. In some examples, first interface 330 and first interface trace 320 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to first interface 130 and first interface trace 120 of FIG. 1 . Third interface 370 may also have a trace 360 for a single-band configuration. In some examples, third interface 370 and third interface trace 360 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to third interface 170 and third interface trace 160 of FIG. 1 .
[0099] As shown in FIG. 3, first interface trace 320 may also be capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch 322 for a polarization diversity configuration. In some examples, first interface trace 320 may be coupled to a first output 324 of polarization diversity switch 322, as described above in relation to first interface trace 120, first output 124, and polarization diversity switch 122 of FIG. 1 . In some examples, when printed circuit board 300 is in a polarization diversity configuration, input 323 of polarization diversity switch 322 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to input 123 and polarization diversity switch 122 of FIG. 1 .
[00100] Second interface 350 may have a trace 340 capable of being coupled to polarization diversity switch 322 for the polarization diversity configuration. In some examples, second interface trace 340 may be coupled to a second output 325 of polarization diversity switch 322, as described above in relation to second interface trace 140, second output 125, and polarization diversity switch 122 of FIG. 1 .
[00101] In the example of FIG. 3, second interface trace 340 may also be capable of being coupled to a diplexer 342 for a dual-band configuration. In some examples, second interface trace 340 may be coupled to a first input 343 of diplexer 342, as described above in relation to second interface trace 140, first output 143, and diplexer 142 of FIG. 1 . In some examples, when printed circuit board 300 is in a dual-band configuration, input 344 of diplexer 342 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to input 144 and diplexer 142 of FIG. 1 .
[00102] Third interface 370 may have a trace 360 capable of being coupled to diplexer 342 for the dual-band configuration. In some examples, third interface trace 360 may be coupled to an output 345 of diplexer 342, as described above in relation to third interface trace 160, output 145, and diplexer 142 of FIG. 1.
[00103] In the example of FIG. 3, as described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 4-6, various components may or may not be installed in printed circuit board 300 or included as part of networking device 301 , depending on the RF configuration. As described above in relation to FIG. 1 , printed circuit board 300 having a single-band configuration may not have installed a polarization diversity switch 322 and a diplexer 342, though their footprints may remain on the board. Similarly, printed circuit board 300 having a polarization diversity configuration may not have installed a diplexer 342, though its footprint may remain on the board. In another example, printed circuit board 300 having a dual-band configuration may not have installed a polarization diversity switch 322, though its footprint may remain on the board. In such examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple first interface trace 320, second interface trace 340, and third interface trace 360, as described above in more detail in relation to FIG. 1 , may or may not be installed depending on the RF configuration.
[00104] In some examples, first interface 330, second interface 350, and the components along first interface trace 320 and second interface trace 340 may be referred to as a chain. As shown in FIG. 3, "Chain 0" may include first and second interfaces 330 and 350, first and second interface traces 320 and 340, polarization diversity switch 322, and diplexer 342 (along with any components not shown there between). In some examples, printed circuit board 300 may include a single chain along with an additional interface such as third interface 370. In other examples, printed circuit board 300 may include several chains and an additional interface. For instance, third interface 370 may be part of a second chain, "Chain 1 ," not depicted in FIG. 3. Accordingly, while a single chain is shown in the example of FIG. 3, printed circuit board 300 may include any number of suitable chains as well as an additional interface to support multiple RF configurations. In some examples, each chain may be in a same RF configuration. In other examples, the chains may be in multiple RF configurations. For example, some chains may be in a polarization diversity configuration whereas other chains may be in a single-band configuration.
[00105] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example networking device 401 comprising a networking device casing, a printed circuit board 400 within the networking device casing, and components for the single-band configuration. In examples described herein, a networking device may be a computing device or other device to provide networking functionality, such as an access point or the like. The networking device casing, in examples described herein, may refer to any casing for the networking device that houses the printed circuit board. In some examples, networking device casing may be rigid or flexible and may completely or partially encase the printed circuit board. In some examples, the networking device casing may conform closely to the printed circuit board. In other examples, the networking case may allow room for additional components.
[00106] As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[00107] Printed circuit board 400 may include first interface 430, second interface 450, and third interface 470. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, and third interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 430, second interface 450, and third interface 470 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single- band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 430, second interface 450, and third interface 470 may comprise any electromechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 430, second interface 450, and third interface 470 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 400 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[00108] Each of first interface 430, second interface 450, and third interface 470 may have a trace on printed circuit board 400. As shown, first interface 430 may have first interface trace 420, second interface 450 may have second interface trace 440, and third interface 470 may have third interface trace 460. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[00109] Printed circuit board 400 of FIG. 4 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 420, 440, and 460, but is in the single-band configuration. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. In the example of FIG. 4, first interface trace 420 and third interface trace 460 in the single-band configuration are shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference. Components and traces that may not be used in the single-band configuration are shown in dashed lines.
[00110] A single-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a single-band antenna. A single-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at a single frequency. In some examples, different single-band configurations may be used that involve single-band antennas at different frequencies.
[00111] In the example of FIG. 4, first interface 430 may have a trace 420 for the single- band configuration. In some examples, first interface 430 and first interface trace 420 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to first interface 230 and first interface trace 220 of FIG. 2A. First interface 430 may couple to or connect to a first single-band antenna 432. As described above in relation to first single- band antenna 232 of FIG. 2A, first single-band antenna 432 may be resonant at any suitable frequency and may be located on printed circuit board 400 (as depicted in FIG. 4) or off printed circuit board 400. In some examples, first single-band antenna 432 is located within the networking device casing. In other examples, first single-band antenna 432 is external to the networking device casing, but communicatively attached to networking device 401.
[00112] Third interface 470 may also have a trace 460 for the single-band configuration. In some examples, third interface 470 and third interface trace 460 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to third interface 270 and third interface trace 260 of FIG. 2A. In some examples, third interface 470 and third interface trace 460 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to third interface 270 and third interface trace 460 of FIG. 2A. Third interface 470 may couple to or connect to a second single-band antenna 472. As described above in relation to second single-band antenna 272 of FIG. 2A, second single-band antenna 472 may be resonant at any suitable frequency and may be located on printed circuit board 400 (as depicted in FIG. 4) or off printed circuit board 400. In some examples, second single- band antenna 472 is located within the networking device casing. In other examples, second single-band antenna 472 is external to the networking device casing, but communicatively attached to networking device 401 .
[00113] As shown in FIG. 4, in the single-band configuration, second interface 450 of printed circuit board 400 may not be used. In some examples, in the single-band configuration, polarization diversity switch 422 and diplexer 442 may not be used or, in some examples, may not be installed in printed circuit board 400. Similarly, in some examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple portions of first interface trace 420, second interface trace 440, and third interface trace 460 to various components, including polarization diversity switch 422 and diplexer 442, may not be installed.
[00114] In the example of FIG. 4, a single chain, Chain 0, and an additional interface, third interface 470, are depicted on printed circuit board 400. However, in some examples, printed circuit board 400 may include any number of suitable chains and an additional interface. For instance, third interface 470 may be part of a second chain, "Chain 1 ," not depicted in FIG. 4. In some examples, each chain of printed circuit board 400 may be in the single-band configuration. In other examples, the chains may be in multiple RF configurations. For example, some chains may be in the single-band configuration whereas other chains may be in a polarization diversity configuration.
[00115] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an example networking device 501 comprising a networking device casing, a printed circuit board 500 within the networking device casing, and components for the polarization diversity configuration. In examples described herein, a networking device may be a computing device or other device to provide networking functionality, such as an access point or the like. The networking device casing, in examples described herein, may refer to any casing for the networking device that houses the printed circuit board. In some examples, networking device casing may be rigid or flexible and may completely or partially encase the printed circuit board. In some examples, the networking device casing may conform closely to the printed circuit board. In other examples, the networking case may allow room for additional components.
[00116] As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[00117] Printed circuit board 500 may include first interface 530, second interface 550, and third interface 570. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, and third interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 530, second interface 550, and third interface 570 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single- band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, GPS antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 530, second interface 550, and third interface 570 may comprise any electro-mechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 530, second interface 550, and third interface 570 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 500 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[00118] Each of first interface 530, second interface 550, and third interface 570 may have a trace on printed circuit board 500. As shown, first interface 530 may have first interface trace 520, second interface 550 may have second interface trace 540, and third interface 570 may have third interface trace 560. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[00119] Printed circuit board 500 of FIG. 5 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 520, 540, and 560, but is in the polarization diversity configuration. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. In the example of FIG. 5, first interface trace 520 and second interface trace 540 in the polarization diversity configuration are shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference. Components and traces that may not be used in the polarization diversity configuration are shown in dashed lines. Although third interface trace 560 is shown in a dashed line in FIG. 5, in some examples third interface trace may be part of a second chain and used in the polarization diversity configuration. In some such examples, third interface trace 560 may couple to a second polarization diversity switch and third interface 570 may connect to a vertically polarized antenna, as described in more detail in relation to third interface trace 260 and third interface 270 of FIG. 2A.
[00120] A polarization diversity configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses diverse antennas. In some examples, the diverse antennas may involve vertically polarized and horizontally polarized antennas. In other examples, the diverse antennas may be spatially diverse, sectorized, or the like. A vertically polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives vertically polarized waves. It is a linear polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a vertical direction and has an electric field perpendicular to a reference point. A horizontally-polarized antenna, as used in examples herein, emits and receives horizontally polarized waves. It is a linear-polarized antenna that may be physically oriented in a horizontal direction and has an electric field parallel to a reference point.
[00121] In the example of FIG. 5, first interface 530 may have a trace 520 capable of being coupled to polarization diversity switch 522 for the polarization diversity configuration. When printed circuit board 500 is in a polarization diversity configuration, in some examples, input 523 of polarization diversity switch 522 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to input 223 and polarization diversity switch 222 of FIG. 2A. In some examples, first interface trace 520 may be coupled to a first output 524 of polarization diversity switch 522, as described above in relation to first interface trace 220, first output 224, and polarization diversity switch 222 of FIG. 2A.
[00122] First interface 530 may couple to or connect to a vertically polarized antenna 534. As described above in relation to first vertically polarized antenna 234 of FIG. 2A, vertically polarized antenna 534 may be resonant at any suitable frequency and may be located on printed circuit board 500 (as depicted in FIG. 5) or off printed circuit board 500. In some examples, vertically polarized antenna 534 is located within the networking device casing. In other examples, vertically polarized antenna 534 is external to the networking device casing, but communicatively attached to networking device 501.
[00123] Second interface 550 may also have a trace 540 capable of being coupled to polarization diversity switch 522 for the polarization diversity configuration. In some examples, second interface trace 540 may be coupled to a second output 525 of polarization diversity switch 522, as described above in relation to second interface trace 240, second output 225, and polarization diversity switch 222 of FIG. 2A. Second interface 550 may couple to or connect to a horizontally polarized antenna 552. As described above in relation to first horizontally polarized antenna 252 of FIG. 2A, horizontally polarized antenna 552 may be resonant at any suitable frequency and may be located on printed circuit board 500 (as depicted in FIG. 5) or off printed circuit board 500. In some examples, horizontally polarized antenna 552 is located within the networking device casing. In other examples, horizontally polarized antenna 552 is external to the networking device casing, but communicatively attached to networking device 501.
[00124] As shown in FIG. 5, in the polarization diversity configuration, when printed circuit board 500 includes a single chain, Chain 0, third interface 570 may not be used. In some examples, in the polarization diversity configuration, diplexer 542 may not be used or, in some examples, may not be installed in printed circuit board 500. Similarly, in some examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple portions of first interface trace 520, second interface trace 540, and third interface trace 560 to various components, including diplexer 442, may not be installed.
[00125] In the example of FIG. 5, a single chain, Chain 0, and an additional interface, third interface 570, are depicted on printed circuit board 500. However, in some examples, printed circuit board 500 may include any number of suitable chains and an additional interface. For instance, third interface 570 may be part of a second chain, "Chain 1 ," not depicted in FIG. 5. In some examples, each chain of printed circuit board 500 may be in the polarization diversity configuration. In other examples, the chains may be in multiple RF configurations. For example, some chains may be in the polarization diversity configuration whereas other chains may be in a single-band configuration.
[00126] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an example networking device 601 comprising a networking device casing, a printed circuit board 600 within the networking device casing, and components for the dual-band configuration. In examples described herein, a networking device may be a computing device or other device to provide networking functionality, such as an access point or the like. The networking device casing, in examples described herein, may refer to any casing for the networking device that houses the printed circuit board. In some examples, networking device casing may be rigid or flexible and may completely or partially encase the printed circuit board. In some examples, the networking device casing may conform closely to the printed circuit board. In other examples, the networking case may allow room for additional components.
[00127] As used herein, a printed circuit board may refer to a substrate that mechanically supports components and includes electrical traces, tracks, pads, or other conductive substances or elements to electrically connect the components. As used herein, a component may refer to an electrical or electromechanical device or circuit. The printed circuit board may be rigid or flexible, may be a card, panel, or sheet, and may be made of any material suitable for the functionality described below. In some examples, the printed circuit board may contain embedded components. In other examples, components may be adhered to the printed circuit board.
[00128] Printed circuit board 600 may include first interface 630, second interface 650, and third interface 670. As used herein, each of the first interface, second interface, and third interface may refer to a point of connection that allows for communication between components. In some examples, first interface 630, second interface 650, and third interface 670 may comprise RF connectors for connecting to components such as a single- band antenna, polarized antenna, dual-band antenna, Wi-Fi antenna, GPS antenna, or a radio frequency integrated circuit. In other examples, first interface 630, second interface 650, and third interface 670 may comprise any electro-mechanical connector used to communicate electrical signals between or to join electrical circuits or components. In yet other examples, first interface 630, second interface 650, and third interface 670 may define a footprint on printed circuit board 600 in which a connector may be adhered, attached, or otherwise located for communication to an electrical circuit or component.
[00129] Each of first interface 630, second interface 650, and third interface 670 may have a trace on printed circuit board 600. As shown, first interface 630 may have first interface trace 620, second interface 650 may have second interface trace 640, and third interface 670 may have third interface trace 660. As used herein, a trace may refer to a conductive element for connecting electrical components that is printed on or otherwise part of a printed circuit board.
[00130] Printed circuit board 600 of FIG. 6 may support multiple RF configurations via traces 620, 640, and 660, but is in the dual-band configuration. As used herein, an RF configuration may refer to an arrangement of elements to transmit and/or receive an RF signal. In some examples, the RF configuration may transmit and/or receive multiple RF signals in multiple frequencies. In the example of FIG. 6, second interface trace 640 and third interface trace 660 in the dual-band configuration are shown, in part, in a solid line for ease of reference. Components and traces that may not be used in the dual-band configuration are shown in dashed lines.
[00131] A dual-band configuration, as used in examples herein, may refer to an RF configuration that uses a dual-band antenna. A dual-band antenna, as used in examples herein, is an antenna that may be resonant at multiple frequencies.
[00132] In the example of FIG. 6, second interface trace 640 may be capable of being coupled to a diplexer 642 for the dual-band configuration. In some examples, second interface trace 640 may be coupled to a first input 643 of diplexer 642, as described above in relation to second interface trace 240, first input 243, and diplexer 242 of FIG. 2A. As described above in relation to second interface 250 of FIG. 2A, in some examples, second interface 650 may receive an RF signal in a second frequency (/2) 604. When printed circuit board 600 is in the dual-band configuration, in some examples, second input 644 of diplexer 642 may be capable of coupling to a filter and/or a RFIC, as described above in relation to second input 244 of diplexer 242 of FIG. 2A.
[00133] Third interface 670 may have a trace 660 capable of being coupled to diplexer 642 for the dual-band configuration. In some examples, third interface trace 660 may be coupled to an output 645 of diplexer 642, as described above in relation to third interface trace 260, output 245, and diplexer 242 of FIG. 2A. Third interface 670 may couple or connect to a dual-band antenna 676. As described above in relation to dual-band antenna 276 of FIG. 2A, dual-band antenna 676 may be resonant at, for example, a first and second frequency wherein the first and second frequencies differ and are any suitable frequencies. Dual-band antenna 676 may be located on printed circuit board 600 (as depicted in FIG. 6) or off printed circuit board 600. In some examples, dual-band antenna 676 is located within the networking device casing. In other examples, dual-band antenna 676 is external to the networking device casing, but communicatively attached to networking device 601 .
[00134] As shown in FIG. 6, in the dual-band configuration, first interface 630 may not be used. In some examples, in the dual-band configuration, polarization diversity switch 622 may not be used or, in some examples, may not be installed in printed circuit board 600. Similarly, in some examples, other components such as capacitors and resistors used to route and couple portions of first interface trace 620, second interface trace 640, and third interface trace 660 to various components, including polarization diversity switch 622, may not be installed.
[00135] In the example of FIG. 6, a single chain, Chain 0, and an additional interface, third interface 670, are depicted on printed circuit board 600. However, in some examples, printed circuit board 600 may include any number of suitable chains and an additional interface. For instance, third interface 670 may be part of a second chain, "Chain 1 ," not depicted in FIG. 6. In some examples, each chain of printed circuit board 600 may be in the dual-band configuration. In other examples, the chains may be in multiple RF configurations.
[00136] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method 700 for manufacturing a printed circuit board to support multiple RF configurations. Although method 700 is described below with reference to printed circuit board 100 of FIG. 1 , method 700 can also be a method of manufacturing other example printed circuit boards (e.g., printed circuit board 200 of FIG. 2A). Additionally, implementation of method 700 is not limited to such examples.
[00137] In the example of FIG. 7, method 700 may be a method of manufacturing printed circuit board 100 of FIG. 1 . At 710, a trace 120 of a first interface 130 that is capable of being coupled to a filter 1 14 for a single band configuration may be printed. As used herein, printing may refer to any process for producing traces, conductive elements, or footprints for electronic components on a substrate. In some examples, printing may involve etching a conductive substrate such as a copper sheet. In other examples, printing may involve transference of conductive elements to a non-conductive substrate or vice versa. In yet other examples, printing may involve the use of a photomask on a conductive substrate having a photoresist coating. First interface trace 120 may be capable of being coupled to filter 1 14, as described above in relation to the single-band configuration of FIG. 1 . In some examples, filter 1 14 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, filter 1 14 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and the filter may be later attached.
[00138] At 710, a first interface trace 120 that is capable of being coupled to a polarization diversity switch 122 for a polarization diversity configuration may be printed. In some examples, first interface trace 120 may be capable of being coupled to a first output 124 of a polarization diversity switch 122, as described above in relation to the polarization diversity configuration of FIG. 1 . In some examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and may be later attached.
[00139] At 720, a trace 140 of a second interface 150 that is capable of being coupled to the polarization diversity switch 122 for the polarization diversity configuration may be printed. In some examples, second interface trace 140 may be capable of being coupled to the second output 125 of polarization diversity switch 122, as described above in relation to the polarization diversity configuration of FIG. 1 . In some examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, polarization diversity switch 122 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and may be later attached.
[00140] At 720, a second interface trace 140 that is capable of being coupled to a diplexer 142 for a dual-band configuration may be printed. In some examples, second interface trace 140 may be capable of being coupled to a first input 143 of diplexer 142, as described above in relation to the dual-band configuration of FIG. 1 . In some examples, diplexer 142 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, diplexer 142 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and may be later attached.
[00141] At 730, a trace 160 of a third interface 170 that is capable of being coupled to a second filter 1 18 for the single band configuration may be printed. Third interface trace 160 may be capable of being coupled to filter 1 18, as described above in relation to the single-band configuration of FIG. 1. In some examples, filter 1 18 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, filter 1 18 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and the filter may be later attached.
[00142] At 730, a third interface trace 160 that is capable of being coupled to the diplexer 142 for the dual-band configuration may be printed. In some examples, third interface trace 160 may be coupled to an output 145 of diplexer 142, as described above in relation to the dual-band configuration of FIG. 1 . In some examples, diplexer 142 may be embedded in printed circuit board 100. In other examples, diplexer 142 may be represented by a footprint on printed circuit board 100 and may be later attached.
[00143] Although the flowchart of FIG. 7 shows a specific order of performance of certain functionalities, method 700 is not limited to that order. For example, the functionalities shown in succession in the flowchart may be performed in a different order, may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence, or a combination thereof. In some examples, functionalities described herein in relation to FIG. 7 may be provided in combination with functionalities described herein in relation to any of FIGS. 1 -6.
Next Patent: PREDICTIVE ROLLUP AND CACHING FOR APPLICATION PERFORMANCE DATA